Nestled in the serene landscape of Burgdorf, Bern, the Leprosarium and chapel, known locally as Siechenhaus und Kapelle, stand as a testament to medieval care and architecture. This historic site, dating back to the late Middle Ages, is the only one of its kind in Switzerland that remains in its original form. The Leprosarium served as a care facility for those afflicted with leprosy until the 17th century, offering a glimpse into a world where medicine, faith, and community care intertwined.
The Leprosarium first appeared in Burgdorf's records in 1316, with the chapel following in 1446. Built to provide care and isolation for leprosy patients, its location was strategic—situated along the road to Aargau and Lucerne, yet isolated due to the contagious nature of the disease. This placement was typical for such facilities, often found near major roads and bridges where they could collect alms and tolls to support their operations.
Following the decline of leprosy, the Leprosarium housed around ten residents, primarily women, and a cook throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. The Siechenvogt, or overseer, managed the facility. The last resident moved to a hospital in 1798, marking the end of its use as a care facility. The building was later repurposed for storage, reflecting a broader societal fear of contagion.
The chapel, consecrated by Bishop Johannes of Constance in 1446, was dedicated to several saints, including St. Bartholomew and St. Oswald. It served not only the residents of the Leprosarium but also the broader community, maintaining services even after the Reformation. The chapel's endurance is a testament to its spiritual significance, surviving numerous changes and restorations over the centuries.
In 1955, a major restoration led by architect Ernst Bechstein, with input from expert Michael Stettler, revitalized the chapel. The roof and tower were reconstructed, and the chapel was outfitted with a small organ from Genf A.G., allowing it to resume its role as a place of Protestant worship in 1958.
The Leprosarium itself is an architectural gem, constructed in the early 16th century. Its rectangular, late Gothic design features a striking hipped roof and robust stone walls. The main entrance, adorned with the city’s coat of arms, opens into a space that once housed various rooms essential for the daily life and care of its residents.
Inside, the Leprosarium was equipped with a kitchen, storage rooms, and even a bathhouse, reflecting the medical practices of the time. Treatments included bathing, sweating, and cupping to expel harmful humors. The building’s rustic interior contrasts with its meticulously crafted exterior, suggesting that residents themselves may have contributed to its construction.
Life within the Leprosarium was marked by a blend of self-sufficiency and community support. Residents engaged in agriculture, using tools to cultivate a vegetable garden. The facility provided for both the physical and spiritual needs of its inhabitants, with a communal sleeping area and a more private Pfrundstube for wealthier residents who could afford better accommodations.
A city pastor attended to the spiritual needs of the residents, with the nearby chapel serving as a place for prayer and reflection. Despite their isolation, the residents of the Leprosarium were integrated into a network of care and community, their lives defined by both their illness and their resilience.
Today, the Leprosarium and chapel stand as cultural landmarks, protected by the Burgdorf community since 1925. Visitors can explore the grounds and imagine the lives of those who once sought solace and care within its walls. The surrounding landscape, with its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance, offers a stark contrast to the historical hardships faced by its former residents.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Leprosarium and chapel in Burgdorf invite you to step back in time and discover a remarkable chapter of Swiss history. This site is not just a relic of the past but a symbol of enduring compassion and community care, echoing stories of resilience and hope through the ages.
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